Debutants Malawi Shock Defending Champions Nigeria In WAFCON Opener

Debutants Malawi Shock Defending Champions Nigeria In WAFCON Opener

By BSN Sports 

Malawi produced one of the biggest upsets in the history of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after defeating defending champions Nigeria 3-2 in a dramatic Group C opener at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Making their debut at the continental showpiece, the Scorchers delivered a fearless performance to hand the 10-time African champions a rare opening-match defeat, ending Nigeria's long-standing record of never losing to a tournament debutant since the competition began in 1998.

The victory was inspired by captain Temwa Chawinga, who scored twice, while her sister, Tabitha Chawinga, added the second goal in a memorable outing for the Southern Africans. Nigeria responded through a Rasheedat Ajibade penalty and a late strike from Uchenna Kanu, but the Super Falcons' spirited comeback fell just short.

Despite enjoying more possession, Nigeria struggled to break down a disciplined Malawi side in a goalless first half.

The Super Falcons controlled large spells of the contest but created few clear-cut chances against a well-organised defence. Malawi remained compact, absorbing pressure while looking to exploit the pace and creativity of the Chawinga sisters on the counterattack.

The longer the game remained level, the more confidence grew within the Scorchers, who showed little sign of being overawed by the occasion.

The breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute when Ireen Khumalo picked out Temwa Chawinga, who calmly finished to give Malawi a deserved 1-0 lead.

Just six minutes later, the Scorchers doubled their advantage. Sabina Thom provided the assist for Tabitha Chawinga, whose composed finish stunned the defending champions and put Malawi firmly in control.

With Nigeria chasing the game, Malawi continued to threaten and were rewarded again in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Benadetta Mkandawire's pass found Temwa Chawinga, who scored her second goal of the evening to restore her side's two-goal cushion after Nigeria had briefly threatened a comeback.

Nigeria finally found a breakthrough in the second minute of stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted from the penalty spot to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

The goal sparked renewed belief for the Super Falcons, but Temwa Chawinga's second strike moments later appeared to put the result beyond doubt.

Uchenna Kanu netted in the ninth minute of added time to make it 3-2 and set up a nervy finish, but Malawi held firm to secure one of the most significant victories in the nation's football history.

The result marks a landmark moment for Malawi, who announced themselves on the continental stage with a statement victory in their first-ever WAFCON match.

For Nigeria, the defeat is an early setback in their quest for a record-extending 11th African title and leaves the Super Falcons with work to do in a competitive Group C that also features Zambia and Egypt.

With the tournament also serving as Africa's qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, the Super Falcons will be under pressure to respond quickly in their remaining group matches, while Malawi's remarkable victory has significantly boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.